SureBeam, the US-based food irradiation provider, has been awarded a patent that increases the processing efficiency of its technology and provides the ability to simultaneously process products in a variety of package configurations.
Surebeam says that the patent is expected to increase the use of the technology for in-line production applications. Its electron beam technology is a process that uses ordinary electricity to safely eliminate the threat of dangerous bacteria from food products.
"This patent further strengthens SureBeam's position as a leader in electron beam and x-ray technology," said Larry Oberkfell, SureBeam's Chairman, president and CEO. "It's a great addition to the increasing number of SureBeam's intellectual properties and one that significantly advances our processing efficiency."
Similar to a microwave oven, SureBeam technology uses electricity as an energy source to irradiate harmful bacteria such as E.coli, Listeria, and Salmonella. The SureBeam patented system is based on proven electron beam technology that destroys dangerous bacteria, much like thermal pasteurisation does to milk.
SureBeam processed ground beef is currently sold in retail supermarkets across the United States. This is in addition to the nation-wide availability by home delivery and direct mail.
Headquartered in San Diego, California, SureBeam Corporation is a leading provider of electron beam food safety systems and services for the food industry.